Bridge Load Testing Units for Structural Integrity Assurance

Load Force Measurement offers mobile and fixed systems for real-time bridge performance analysis and compliance verification
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Overview

Bridge Load Testing Units

Bridge load testing units are essential for evaluating the strength, stability, and performance of bridge structures under controlled or real-world load conditions. These systems help engineers assess structural capacity, detect stress concentrations, and validate rehabilitation work—especially when drawings or calculations are unavailable. Load testing reduces uncertainty in aging or damaged infrastructure and supports evidence-based decisions for upgrades or decommissioning. This page outlines the latest in bridge load testing systems, designed to capture force, displacement, strain, and vibration data during static or dynamic tests. Load Force Measurement works with public agencies and contractors across North America to deploy bridge testing solutions tailored to roadway classifications and safety requirements. With a deep commitment to innovation, Load Force Measurement delivers systems that ensure safe transportation networks, backed by expert consultation, precise instrumentation, and streamlined field deployment processes.

Explore

GAO Tek Wireless Strain Gauge Node
Captures micro-strain readings on bridge elements during vehicle or static loading

GAO Tek Ultrasonic Deflection Sensor
Measures vertical and horizontal displacement in girders and decking under applied loads.

GAO RFID Tilt Angle Monitoring Tag
Monitors angular deviation of bridge piers or deck segments under shifting weight.

GAO Tek Temperature Compensation Unit
Stabilizes data readings affected by thermal variation during long-duration tests.

Software and Systems

GAO Tek Bridge Load Test Analyzer
Aggregates sensor inputs into visual reports for strain, displacement, and fatigue.

GAO RFID Cloud-Based Infrastructure Portal
Provides test teams with remote access to ongoing test data and documentation.

Core Components

Hardware Products (from GAO Tek & GAO RFID)

Partnerships

Reliable Bridge Testing Systems Built on Strong Partnerships

In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Bridge Load Testing Units, we are proud to carry top-tier technologies from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These reliable, high-quality products and systems enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive technologies, integrations, and services you can trust. Where relevant, we have provided direct links to select products and systems from GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.

Key Features and Functionalities

Support for Static, Dynamic, and Proof Load Testing

Mobile Deployment Kits for field testing of various bridge types

Synchronized Data Capture from multiple sensor types and locations

Real-Time Alerts and Threshold Warnings for live vehicle tests

Compliance-Ready Output for DOT and engineering documentation

Compatibility

  • Highway and rail bridges (steel, concrete, composite)
  • Load simulators, live test vehicles, and deflection jacks
  • GPS-synchronized test systems for time-based correlation
  • DOT protocols and AASHTO field test specifications
  • Integration with civil engineering modelling software (e.g., SAP2000, MIDAS Civil)

Applications

  • Evaluating bridge safety before reopening after repairs
  • Establishing load ratings for older or undocumented structures
  • Assessing structural fatigue in high-traffic bridges
  • Supporting forensic engineering after natural disasters
  • Validating new bridge designs under actual load conditions

Industries We Serve

  • State and Provincial Departments of Transportation
  • Civil and Structural Engineering Firms
  • Infrastructure Inspection Contractors
  • Transit and Rail Authorities
  • Construction and Rehabilitation Companies

Relevant U.S. and Canadian Industry Standards

  • AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation
  • ASTM D4945
  • FHWA Load Testing Guidelines
  • CSA S6 Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code
  • ASCE Standard SEI/ASCE 7

Case Study 1: State Route Load Verification (Pennsylvania)

A Department of Transportation field team utilized Load Force Measurement’s bridge load testing unit on a two-lane rural bridge. Live loading with water trucks and synchronized strain gauges confirmed the span’s capacity exceeded design expectations, avoiding a costly full replacement

Case Study 2: Post-Seismic Bridge Assessment (Washington State)

Following a regional earthquake, engineers deployed our mobile testing unit on a highway overpass. The system provided data on deck deflection and pier displacement, verifying the structure's continued safe use while guiding retrofit priorities

Case Study 3: Municipal Bridge Retrofit Study (Alberta)

An engineering consultancy in Alberta partnered with Load Force Measurement to assess the strength of a pre-1960s steel truss bridge undergoing retrofitting. Real-time strain and vibration data from our system enabled accurate reinforcement design and project cost control

Case Studies

Need proven technology for bridge load testing projects?

Contact Us to speak with our structural instrumentation experts, schedule a consultation, or request a quote. Load Force Measurement is ready to support your infrastructure assessment needs with precision equipment and field-tested solutions

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